A common species in mountain regions of the Alps and grassy flowery places in Scandinavia and across eastern Europe. More restriced in other places.

Identification & Similar species: The white stripe on the underside hindwing originating from the cell spot is characteristic, occasionally it is much reduced or even absent.

Distribution & Flight: In western Europe this species is confined to the higher mountains of Spain and France. Further east it is much more widespread from the southern Balkans then again from central Europe to northern Scandinavia. In the Balkans the undersides are generally more golden in colour. Flies in a single brood from May to August.

Habitat & Behaviour: Open grassy flowery places, usually amongst forests and woodland. The foodplant cransbills, Geranium sp. is always present where the butterfly is found - it's not by chance that several of my photos shows the butterfly feeding on the foodplant.